“Instead of your shame, you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace, you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.” – Isaiah 61:7 (NIV)
The Story of His Abundant Grace
There was a time in my writing career when I felt undeserving of the opportunities God was placing before me. I questioned whether I was qualified enough, talented enough, or worthy of the blessings He was pouring into my life. Honestly, I sometimes continue to struggle in this area. Yet, in these moments of doubt, God reminds me that He's not limited by my inadequacies—His plans are far greater than any of my many fears.
I remember vividly a season when I was on the verge of giving up, feeling the sting of rejection letters and the weight of imposter syndrome. I even began actively preparing to return to my former occupation of school administration. But God, in His faithfulness, brought renewal into my heart. Doors began to open unexpectedly: invitations to speak, opportunities to publish, and moments where my words resonated deeply with others. It wasn’t because of anything I had done but because of His abundant grace.
I realized that this season wasn’t about my qualifications—it was about leaning into God’s calling for renewal, restoration, and rebirth. And through it all, He gave me a double portion of blessings, just as Isaiah 61:7 promises.
Three Ways God Restores Us
1. He Renews Our Purpose
When life feels aimless or stagnant, God breathes new purpose into our lives. His plans are always for our good, and He equips us to walk in them. In my writing journey, He renewed my purpose by reminding me that my words could glorify Him and encourage others.
2. He Restores Our Confidence
It’s easy to feel disqualified by our past mistakes or failures. But God restores confidence by reminding us that we are His chosen vessels. He does not call the qualified—He qualifies the called.
3. He Rebirths Our Joy
When shame and discouragement steal our joy, God replaces it with everlasting joy. His blessings remind us of His faithfulness and goodness, and He fills our hearts with gratitude for His perfect plan.
A Prayer for Renewal and Restoration
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being a God of rebirth, restoration, and renewal. Even when we feel undeserving, You pour out Your blessings and give us a double portion of joy. Help us to lean into Your promises and trust in Your plans for our lives. Renew our hearts, restore our confidence, and rebirth our joy so we may walk boldly in the purpose You've set before us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Your Turn:
Have you experienced God’s restoration in your life? Take a moment to reflect on areas needing renewal or restoration.
Call to Action:
1. Write down three areas where you trust God for a double portion of blessings.
2. Pray over those areas and ask God for guidance and renewal.
3. Share your testimony with someone who needs encouragement today.
Let’s walk into this season of renewal together, trusting that His plans are better than anything we could imagine
Comments